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'''Oakland''' [http://oaklandcvb.com/] is a port city in the [[Bay Area (California)|Bay Area]] of [[California]] in the [[United States of America]]. The city was rated by Rand McNally as having the best weather in the country. While Oakland doesn't have the concentration of tourist amenities present in [[San Francisco]] to the west, or the suburban landscape of [[San Jose (California)|San Jose]] to the south, the visitor can easily spend a few pleasant days here with a wealth of things to do and see. Media and popular lore convey a consistently negative image of Oakland that does not accurately represent the city's actual everyday realities. The city does indeed have a crime issue, however, the increasing gentrification of sections of Oakland's downtown have brought the city a reappraisal of some sort. ''Forbes Magazine'' listed Oakland's Uptown district as one of the top ten hipster neighborhoods in America. The city gets its name because it is heavily populated with oak trees.

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'''Oakland''' [http://oaklandcvb.com/] is a port city in the [[Bay Area (California)|San Francisco Bay Area]] of [[California]] in the [[United States of America]]. The city was rated by Rand McNally as having some of the best weather in the country. Oakland does not have the concentration of tourist amenities present in neighbor city [[San Francisco]] directly across the bay to the west, or possess the suburban ethos of [[San Jose (California)|San Jose]] to the south, but the visitor to Oakland could easily spend a few pleasant days here with many things to see and do. Oakland consistently receives a negative image but the city does have some great neighborhoods in its hills, and in recent years Oakland's image has begun to undergo a radical improvement. More middle- and upper-middle class residents of all races have moved into Oakland seeking affordable homes; at least homes more affordable than in nearby San Francisco or San Jose. Oakland already has a good balance of Black, White, Asian, and Latino residents, and in recent years there has still been a steady influx of "hipsters" moving to the city. The city as a whole does indeed have a crime issue. However, the increasing and controversial gentrification of sections of Oakland's downtown has brought the city an undoubted reappraisal. Journals ranging from the Wall Street Journal to the UK Guardian have all ran features extolling Oakland's innovative culinary scene.

==Understand==

==Understand==

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Often overshadowed by its larger and trendy neighbor San Francisco lying directly to the west, Oakland nevertheless offers beautiful highlights of its own. Decades ago, former Oakland resident Gertrude Stein returned to visit her hometown of Oakland, from which she departed over twenty years earlier, only to find that her synagogue, her school, a favorite park, and the home in which she grew up no longer existed. An aquaintance, unaware that Stein had already visited the city, asked her if she planned to visit Oakland. Stein replied, "Why go to Oakland? There is no there there." Stein was referring to the institutions and fixtures of her childhood that had, with time, changed completely or disappeared. This statement, however, has been taken out of context to mean there is nothing to see in Oakland.

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Oakland gets its name because the city is heavily populated with oak trees. Although often overshadowed by San Francisco, its beautiful and cosmopolitan neighbor lying directly to the west, Oakland has beautiful highlights of its own such as Lake Merritt, various theaters, and a zoo. Decades ago, former Oakland resident, writer Gertrude Stein, returned to visit her hometown of Oakland from which she left over twenty years ago. Upon her visit she found that her synagogue, a favorite park, her school, and the home in which she grew up no longer existed. An acquaintance, unaware that Stein had already visited the city, asked her if she planned to visit Oakland. Stein replied, "Why go to Oakland? There is no there there", as she was thinking of the fixtures of her childhood that had been demolished. Over many decades, some have taken this statement out of context to mean that there is nothing to see in Oakland.

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But Oakland's visitors can find the "there" there, most easily in the city's affluent and beautiful hillside neighborhoods, its burgeoning culinary scene, its somewhat eccentric shopping districts, the parks, its sports teams, and its waterfront. Several distinct neighborhoods comprise Oakland, all of which host a heady mix of cultures and people.

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But Oakland's visitors can find the "there" there most easily in the city's very affluent and beautiful hillside neighborhoods, its burgeoning culinary scene, its somewhat eccentric shopping districts, the parks, its sports teams, and its waterfront. Several distinct neighborhoods comprise Oakland, all of which host a heady mix of cultures and people.

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In the 1960s, an era of social, cultural, racial, and political revolt throughout the Western world, Oakland became a hub of radical movements –– it is the birthplace of the Black Panther Party –– and numerous criminal organizations, such as the largely white Hell's Angels motorcycle gang, made the city their hub. Yet Oakland's history in the arts and entertainment, often overlooked by the city's detractors, always was and remains quite formidable. Oakland has nurtured or been a second home to novelists Gertrude Stein, Jack London, Amy Tan, and Maya Angelou; actors Mark Hamill, Bruce Lee, and Tom Hanks; architect Julia Morgan; classical conductor Calvin Simmons; rappers MC Hammer and Tupac Shakur, and several other notables in the liberal arts and sciences.

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In the 1960s, an era of social, cultural, racial, and political revolt throughout the Western world, Oakland became a hub of radical movements –– it is the birthplace of the Black Panther Party –– and numerous criminal organizations, such as the largely white Hell's Angels motorcycle gang, made the city their hub. Yet Oakland's history in the arts and entertainment, often overlooked by the city's detractors, always was and remains quite formidable. Oakland has nurtured or been a second home to novelists Gertrude Stein, Jack London, Amy Tan, and Maya Angelou; actors Mark Hamill, Bruce Lee, and Tom Hanks; architect Julia Morgan; classical conductor Calvin Simmons; rappers MC Hammer and Tupac Shakur, and many other notables in the liberal arts and sciences. Governor of California, Jerry Brown, and his wife maintain a large home in the affluent Montclair district, an Oakland neighborhood noted for its steep, wooded hillsides, and expansive homes and estates, many of which have stunning vistas of the city, the San Francisco Bay, and San Francisco and the Marin headlands beyond.

According to the 2000 Census, Oakland is one of the most ethnically diverse cities in the United States (along with [[Long Beach]], California), with over 150 languages spoken within the city's borders. Reflecting this, Oakland holds several annual cultural events, such as the Art & Soul Weekend (held on Labor day weekend), the Cinco de Mayo Fruitvale Festival Parade (early May), the Chinatown Streetfest (late August), and the Oakland Holiday Parade in December.

According to the 2000 Census, Oakland is one of the most ethnically diverse cities in the United States (along with [[Long Beach]], California), with over 150 languages spoken within the city's borders. Reflecting this, Oakland holds several annual cultural events, such as the Art & Soul Weekend (held on Labor day weekend), the Cinco de Mayo Fruitvale Festival Parade (early May), the Chinatown Streetfest (late August), and the Oakland Holiday Parade in December.

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Oakland is served by the regional rail system Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) [http://www.bart.gov/] and the nationwide, long-distance rail service Amtrak [http://www.amtrak.com/], with the Bay Area's largest Amtrak station located in the neighboring city of [[Emeryville]].

Oakland is served by the regional rail system Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) [http://www.bart.gov/] and the nationwide, long-distance rail service Amtrak [http://www.amtrak.com/], with the Bay Area's largest Amtrak station located in the neighboring city of [[Emeryville]].

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BART [http://www.bart.gov/] is a subway/elevated rapid transit system of the Bay Area. It connects Oakland to San Francisco, the [[Peninsula (Bay Area)|Peninsula]], [[Contra Costa County]], and the far northeastern reach of [[Silicon Valley]]. There is plans of also extending a BART line to San Jose. Prices on BART vary by the distance you need to travel; a one-way ticket to Oakland is usually $3-4.

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BART [http://www.bart.gov/] is a subway/elevated rapid transit system of the Bay Area. It connects Oakland to San Francisco, the [[Peninsula (Bay Area)|Peninsula]], [[Contra Costa County]], and the far northeastern reach of [[Silicon Valley]]. Prices on BART vary by the distance you need to travel; a one-way ticket to Oakland is usually $3-4.

The following Amtrak lines serve the Oakland station at Jack London Square, an easy twenty-minute walk away from the center of Downtown:

The following Amtrak lines serve the Oakland station at Jack London Square, an easy twenty-minute walk away from the center of Downtown:

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'''AC Transit''' Route 73 [http://www.actransit.org/riderinfo/schedules/73.html] (day) and Route 805 [http://www.actransit.org/riderinfo/schedules/805.html] (owl) provide fast, frequent, inexpensive, 24-hour bus service between the Oakland Coliseum BART station and the Oakland International Airport. Amtrak Capitol Corridor customers pay $0; ask your train conductor for a Transit Transfer. BART customers pay $1.75; take a BART-to-bus transfer from the white machine, before leaving the paid area of the BART station. The second part of either transfer is valid for a discounted return trip within several days. Otherwise, AC Transit's regular cash fare is $2.

'''AC Transit''' Route 73 [http://www.actransit.org/riderinfo/schedules/73.html] (day) and Route 805 [http://www.actransit.org/riderinfo/schedules/805.html] (owl) provide fast, frequent, inexpensive, 24-hour bus service between the Oakland Coliseum BART station and the Oakland International Airport. Amtrak Capitol Corridor customers pay $0; ask your train conductor for a Transit Transfer. BART customers pay $1.75; take a BART-to-bus transfer from the white machine, before leaving the paid area of the BART station. The second part of either transfer is valid for a discounted return trip within several days. Otherwise, AC Transit's regular cash fare is $2.

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'''AirBART''' is a direct bus shuttle between the Oakland International Airport and the Oakland Coliseum BART [http://www.bart.gov/] train station. The shuttle costs $3 for adults and $1 for children, seniors and persons with disabilities. AirBART accepts fare payment in the form of prepaid BART tickets, available just inside the BART station's entrance; you can also pay by inserting three $1 bills into the machine on the bus.

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'''AirBART''' is a direct BART line between the Oakland International Airport and the Oakland Coliseum BART [http://www.bart.gov/] train station. The shuttle costs $6 for adults and $2.25 for children, seniors and persons with disabilities. AirBART accepts fare payment in the form of prepaid BART tickets, available just inside the BART station's entrance; you can also pay with the Clipper Card, a multi-agency pass accepted all over the Bay Area.

===By car===

===By car===

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* <listing name="Greyhound" alt="" directions=" San Pablo Avenue near 20th Street" lat="" long="" address="2103 San Pablo Ave" phone="510 832-4730" tollfree="" email="" fax="" url="" hours="" price=""> has a terminal conveniently located in an ungentrified section of downtown Oakland, on San Pablo Avenue near 20th Street. As with such bus terminals in other cities, the immediate area is still sketchy at night. Be careful.</listing>

* <listing name="Greyhound" alt="" directions=" San Pablo Avenue near 20th Street" lat="" long="" address="2103 San Pablo Ave" phone="510 832-4730" tollfree="" email="" fax="" url="" hours="" price=""> has a terminal conveniently located in an ungentrified section of downtown Oakland, on San Pablo Avenue near 20th Street. As with such bus terminals in other cities, the immediate area is still sketchy at night. Be careful.</listing>

The AC Transit [http://www.actransit.org/] bus system service is a good way to get around if you're headed for downtown Oakland, Jack London Square, the Grand Lake district, or Temescal. Otherwise, depending on where you're going, it can seem like you're waiting for a long time for the bus to arrive. The AC Transit costs $2.10 for adults. Add $0.25 for transfers. BART provides easy access to the Downtown, Fruitvale, and Rockrdge areas, and makes for an easy day-trip from San Francisco. The last return train runs at about 12:15AM.

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===By car===

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A car is the best way to get around the city, although taking public transit around the city may be an option in the tourist part of the city; unless going to the hills in the eastern part of which there is sparse or no public transit. Public transportation is not recommended all around Oakland as buses may traverse some heavy crime-ridden areas.

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===By bus===

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The AC Transit [http://www.actransit.org/] bus system service is a good way to get around if you're headed for downtown Oakland, Jack London Square, the Grand Lake district, or Temescal. Otherwise, depending on where you're going, it can seem like you're waiting for a long time for the bus to arrive. The AC Transit costs $2.10 for adults. Add $0.25 for transfers.

Downtown, there is a free shuttle service called the "B on Broadway" which runs along Broadway from Jack London Square up to Grand Ave. Runs Monday-Thursday, 7am-7pm, Friday 7am-1am, and Saturday 6pm-1am. There is typically a bus every 15 mins.

Downtown, there is a free shuttle service called the "B on Broadway" which runs along Broadway from Jack London Square up to Grand Ave. Runs Monday-Thursday, 7am-7pm, Friday 7am-1am, and Saturday 6pm-1am. There is typically a bus every 15 mins.

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Those, however, needing to go to the hills of Oakland should have a car as bus service to these areas is sparse.

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===By subway===

BART has 8 stops at major areas of visitor interest, which makes it perhaps the best way to experience Oakland. A majority of these stations are adjacent and of walking distance to popular neighborhoods, eliminating car and parking hassles.

BART has 8 stops at major areas of visitor interest, which makes it perhaps the best way to experience Oakland. A majority of these stations are adjacent and of walking distance to popular neighborhoods, eliminating car and parking hassles.

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BART stations are usually named after the neighborhood they are located in. For example, to visit the chic Rockridge neighborhood, exit the Rockridge BART station, conveniently located steps from this area. Same goes for the Fruitvale District (Fruitvale BART station). Lake Merritt BART station is only a block away from the Oakland Museum of CA. Chinatown is 3 blocks from the 12 Street/City Center BART station.

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BART stations are usually named after the neighborhood they are located in. For example, to visit the chic Rockridge neighborhood, exit the Rockridge BART station, conveniently located steps from this area. Same goes for the Fruitvale District (Fruitvale BART station). Lake Merritt BART station is only a block away from the Oakland Museum of CA. Chinatown is 3 blocks from the 12 Street/City Center BART station. BART service ends around midnight.

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Those, however, needing to go to the hills of Oakland are best off with a car as bus service to these areas is sparse.

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===By rideshare===

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Ridesharing and casual carpool offer an alternate to more traditional modes of transport. These can be more flexible and offer a wider range of pickup options than other modes. 511.org[http://rideshare.511.org/] has information on casual carpool stops. A good example of a ride sharing application is Carma[http://www.carmacarpooling.com/United%20States/Oakland/]. There is also Uber, Lyft and Sidecar.

*<see name="Preservation Park" alt="" address="13th St. and MLK Jr. Way" directions="" phone="" url="http://preservationpark.com/home/" hours="" price="free" lat="" long="">A small block within downtown Oakland featuring a collection of 19 Victorian-era homes, many which were moved from various locations around the city during later development. Stroll through and admire some of Oakland's early architectural heritage.</see>

*<see name="Preservation Park" alt="" address="13th St. and MLK Jr. Way" directions="" phone="" url="http://preservationpark.com/home/" hours="" price="free" lat="" long="">A small block within downtown Oakland featuring a collection of 19 Victorian-era homes, many which were moved from various locations around the city during later development. Stroll through and admire some of Oakland's early architectural heritage.</see>

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* <see name="First Friday Arts Festival" alt="" address="" directions="Telegraph Avenue from West Grand to 27th street" phone="" url="http://http://www.oaklandfirstfridays.org/" hours="F 5-9" price="" lat="" long="" email="" fax="">Coinciding with the Oakland Art Murmur ([http://oaklandartmurmur.org/]) gallery walk, the Uptown neighborhood closes the streets and hosts an eclectic arts and culture public event on the first Friday evening of each month. Art, music, and performances may be seen in the area's many galleries, bars, and street block parties. Many restaurants and food trucks also participate in the event. </see>

==Do==

==Do==

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===Theaters===

===Theaters===

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* <do name="Fox Theater" alt="" address="1807 Telegraph Ave" directions="downtown, near 19th St" phone="+1 510 548-3010" url="http://www.thefoxoakland.com" hours="" price="" lat="" long="" email="" fax="">A former movie theatre, the Fox was built in 1928. It closed its doors in 1970 and stood empty until 2009, when it reopened as a 1,500-2,800 seat music venue, following a two-year, $75 million renovation. One block from the 19th St BART stop, it is in the heart of Oakland's Uptown neighborhood, which due to the construction of stylish condos and refurbishment of lofts and the arrival of notable chefs and their boutique restaurants to cater to the influx of monied younger residents, has achieved become the city leaders' plans to regenerate downtown as Oakland's the Arts and Entertainment district.</do>

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* <do name="Fox Theater" alt="" address="1807 Telegraph Ave" directions="downtown, near 19th St" phone="+1 510 548-3010" url="http://www.thefoxoakland.com" hours="" price="" lat="" long="" email="" fax="">A former movie theatre, the Fox was built in 1928. It closed its doors in 1970 and stood empty until 2009, when it reopened as a 1,500-2,800 seat music venue, following a two-year, $75 million renovation. One block from the 19th St BART stop, it is in the heart of Oakland's Uptown neighborhood, which due to the construction of stylish condos and refurbishment of lofts and the arrival of notable chefs and their boutique restaurants to cater to the influx of monied younger residents, has done much to jump-start the city leaders' plans to regenerate downtown as Oakland's the Arts and Entertainment district.</do>

* <do name="Paramount Theater" alt="" address="2025 Broadway" directions="downtown, near 19th St" phone="+1 510 465-6400" email="" fax="" url="http://www.paramounttheatre.com" hours="" price="">This gorgeous Depression-era theater, completed in 1931, has been completely restored and is maintained in almost mint condition. It's worth just looking at the sculpture, the paintings, even the carpets. Shows include classic movies, concerts, and other live performances.</do>

* <do name="Paramount Theater" alt="" address="2025 Broadway" directions="downtown, near 19th St" phone="+1 510 465-6400" email="" fax="" url="http://www.paramounttheatre.com" hours="" price="">This gorgeous Depression-era theater, completed in 1931, has been completely restored and is maintained in almost mint condition. It's worth just looking at the sculpture, the paintings, even the carpets. Shows include classic movies, concerts, and other live performances.</do>

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* <do name="Parkway Speakeasy Theater" alt="" address="1834 Park Blvd" directions="near Lake Merritt" phone="+1 510 814-2400" email="" fax="" url="http://www.picturepubpizza.com" hours="" price="">Closed its doors in May 2009. A second-run movie theater, the Parkway had two huge screens with large comfy couches to sit on. Best of all, they served pizza, salads, and beer that you could eat and drink while you watched the movie. There are community efforts to reopen the Parkway at some point in the future.</do>

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* <do name="Parkway Speakeasy Theater" alt="" address="1834 Park Blvd" directions="near Lake Merritt" phone="+1 510 814-2400" email="" fax="" url="http://www.picturepubpizza.com" hours="" price="">Closed its doors in May 2009. A second-run movie theater, the Parkway had two huge screens with large comfy couches to sit on. Best of all, they served pizza, salads, and beer that you could eat and drink while you watched the movie. There are community efforts to reopen the Parkway at some point in the future. The New Parkway Theater was recently opened in the spirit of the Parkway.</do>

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* <do name="The New Parkway Theater" alt="" address="474 24th Street" directions="near Uptown" phone="+1 510 658-7900" email="" fax="" url="http://http://www.thenewparkway.com" hours="" price="">This community theater is modeled after the Parkway Speakeasy Theater and opened in 2012. Seating in the theater rooms are a mix up tables, chairs, and couches. Diner-style food, pizza, beverages, beer, and wine are served in the theater and allowed in the rooms. </do>

*'''College Avenue''' is well-known for its shopping and food. Easily reached from the Rockridge Bart station [http://www.bart.gov/stations/stationguide/stationoverview_rockr.asp], one can enjoy delicious food hailing from various continents, take in a yoga class, go book shopping at friendly independent book stores, buy artisan crafted jewelry, treat oneself to gourmet chocolate and sweets, or take a break with a pint and some pub grub. Family friendly and easily reached, College Avenue is a destination for many Oaklanders.

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*'''College Avenue''' is well-known for its shopping and food, boasting international cuisines via a riotous range of higher-end, nationally noted restaurants such as Wood Tavern, Ramen Shop, Box and Bells, and the iconic Oliveto. Easily reached from the Rockridge Bart station [http://www.bart.gov/stations/stationguide/stationoverview_rockr.asp], one can enjoy delicious food hailing from various continents, take in a yoga class, go book shopping at friendly independent book stores, buy artisan crafted jewelry, treat oneself to gourmet chocolate and sweets, or take a break with a pint and some pub grub. Family friendly and easily reached, College Avenue is a destination for many Oaklanders.

*'''Piedmont Avenue''' is a neighborhood district in North Oakland, California. It is named for Piedmont Avenue, the main commercial street of the district. The neighborhood is bounded by Broadway on the west, Oakland Avenue on the East, the Mountain View Cemetery on the north, and the MacArthur Freeway (Interstate 580) on the south. Piedmont Avenue features numerous locally-owned small businesses, including shops, bars, restaurants and bookstores. Piedmont Avenue has recently become known as the Bay Area's Book Row, with six independent bookstores concentrated within a six-block radius.

* <eat name="Fentons Creamery and Restaurant" alt="" address="4226 Piedmont Ave" directions="" phone="+1 510 658-7000" email="" fax="" url="http://www.fentonscreamery.com/" hours="M-Th 11AM-11PM, F Sa 11AM-midnight" price="$5-15 large sundae or entree">This hundred-year-old ice cream parlor is a cornerstone of Oakland culture -- one of those places that East Bay folks point to as making the region special. The parlor is mentioned in the 2009 Pixar film ''Up''. Huge bowls of ice cream and sundaes of various sorts are served in this always-crowded eatery. Sugar-amped kids roam the aisles all day and into the evening, and although the place attracts a cannabis-enhanced college crowd towards the end of the night, it always has a sweet and wholesome atmosphere.</eat>

* <eat name="Fentons Creamery and Restaurant" alt="" address="4226 Piedmont Ave" directions="" phone="+1 510 658-7000" email="" fax="" url="http://www.fentonscreamery.com/" hours="M-Th 11AM-11PM, F Sa 11AM-midnight" price="$5-15 large sundae or entree">This hundred-year-old ice cream parlor is a cornerstone of Oakland culture -- one of those places that East Bay folks point to as making the region special. The parlor is mentioned in the 2009 Pixar film ''Up''. Huge bowls of ice cream and sundaes of various sorts are served in this always-crowded eatery. Sugar-amped kids roam the aisles all day and into the evening, and although the place attracts a cannabis-enhanced college crowd towards the end of the night, it always has a sweet and wholesome atmosphere.</eat>

Oakland's vibrant Latino community, a 10-block strip located on International Boulevard adjacent to the Fruitvale BART station, is a host to some of the best (and most inexpensive) Mexican food in the Bay Area. Although the recently built "Fruitvale Village" shopping area next to the BART station has several new restaurants, they are probably worth visiting. If one prefers real local flavor, one should visit the following:

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Oakland's vibrant Latino community, a 10-block strip located on International Boulevard adjacent to the Fruitvale BART station, is a host to some of the best (and most inexpensive) Mexican food in the Bay Area. Although the recently built "Fruitvale Village" shopping area next to the BART station has several new restaurants, they are probably not worth visiting. If one prefers real local flavor, one should visit the following:

Essential eateries are:

Essential eateries are:

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* <eat name="San Jose Taqueria" alt="" address="" directions="cnr of International Blvd and 35th Ave" phone="" url="" hours="Until 10PM" price="" lat="" long="" email="" fax="">Widely regarded to have the best tacos, but offers a wide array of options (burritos, enchiladas, tortas, etc) black person and dinner plates. Most items are less than $5, have to eat the peen mcween medium-large portions, and have generous ingredients (dinner plates are less than $10 and are "a la carte"). Another plus is the free self serve restaurant-made tortilla chips and delicious salsa and guacamole. Plenty of room to sit inside this historic and creatively decorated restaurant, or sit outside on the patio and enjoy the sunshine.</eat>

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* <eat name="San Jose Taqueria" alt="" address="" directions="cnr of International Blvd and 35th Ave" phone="" url="" hours="Until 10PM" price="" lat="" long="" email="" fax="">Widely regarded to have the best tacos, but offers a wide array of options (burritos, enchiladas, tortas, etc) and dinner plates. Most items are less than $5, have to eat the medium-large portions, and have generous ingredients (dinner plates are less than $10 and are "a la carte"). Another plus is the free self serve restaurant-made tortilla chips and delicious salsa and guacamole. Plenty of room to sit inside this historic and creatively decorated restaurant, or sit outside on the patio and enjoy the sunshine.</eat>

* <eat name="Taqueria La Costa" alt="" address="" directions="cnr of International Blvd and 37th Ave" phone="" email="" fax="" url="" hours="Until 7PM" price="$5 or less">A small, outdoor patio restaurant that features seafood but has the regular fare of typical Mexican restaurants. Spicy, so make sure you request no salsa or jalapenos if that is your preference. A former burger joint turned-taqueria, this eatery is good for lunch and best enjoyed in fair weather with a refreshing agua fresca, as tables are exclusively on the outdoor patio.</eat>

* <eat name="Taqueria La Costa" alt="" address="" directions="cnr of International Blvd and 37th Ave" phone="" email="" fax="" url="" hours="Until 7PM" price="$5 or less">A small, outdoor patio restaurant that features seafood but has the regular fare of typical Mexican restaurants. Spicy, so make sure you request no salsa or jalapenos if that is your preference. A former burger joint turned-taqueria, this eatery is good for lunch and best enjoyed in fair weather with a refreshing agua fresca, as tables are exclusively on the outdoor patio.</eat>

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* <eat name="Saigon Wraps" alt="" address="" directions="located inside the Fruitvale Transit Village" phone="" email="" fax="" url="" hours="" price="$2.50 sandwiches">This is home of the original Banh Mi Sandwich. The restaurant's origins and claim to fame is that they introduced banh mi sandwiches to California in the early 80s.</eat>

* <drink name="Pat's" alt="(NOW THE LAYOVER)" address="" directions="on Franklin near the corner of 15th St" phone="" url="" hours="" price="" lat="" long="" email="" fax="">An ordinary after-work bar with a really cool Blues Open-mic night on Wednesday nights, hosted by the charismatic Bird Leg. If you like live music, this is a highlight of the Bay Area.</drink>

*<sleep name="Anthony Chabot East Bay Regional Park" alt="" address="9999 Redwood Road Castro Valley, CA 94546" directions="" phone="Toll Free: 888-EBPARKS (888-327-2757), option 3, extension 4502" url="http://www.ebparks.org/parks/anthony_chabot" checkin="" checkout="" price="$22" lat="" long="">Anthony Chabot campground is a great place to use as a base of operations for seeing the rest of the bay area. Only 10 miles from downtown Oakland and a few miles from the nearest BART station. There is a ten PM curfew which keeps the place safe. But if you are out late you could get stuck. The campsites themselves are rather average. Close together. Camp site 69 is the best. Bathrooms are clean. Flush toilets and showers. </sleep>

*<sleep name="Anthony Chabot East Bay Regional Park" alt="" address="9999 Redwood Road Castro Valley, CA 94546" directions="" phone="Toll Free: 888-EBPARKS (888-327-2757), option 3, extension 4502" url="http://www.ebparks.org/parks/anthony_chabot" checkin="" checkout="" price="$22" lat="" long="">Anthony Chabot campground is a great place to use as a base of operations for seeing the rest of the bay area. Only 10 miles from downtown Oakland and a few miles from the nearest BART station. There is a ten PM curfew which keeps the place safe. But if you are out late you could get stuck. The campsites themselves are rather average. Close together. Camp site 69 is the best. Bathrooms are clean. Flush toilets and showers. </sleep>

Oakland has one of the highest ''per capita'' murder rates in the United States, although the violence is mostly limited to particular neighborhoods in the flatlands. Property crime statistics are very high as well in the city due to these areas, and they can spill out into the gentrifying areas and the affluent hillside neighborhoods. While large swaths of Oakland are actually safe, it is good idea to exercise care and always be aware of your surroundings. The affluent hills east of Interstate 580 and the Jack London Square area are the safest parts of the city. Downtown and Chinatown are safe during the day, and, with the arrival of the Uptown nightclub, increasingly so at night. Other parts of the city, including the "flatlands" from the west of Lake Merritt and to the south to the San Leandro border, and large parts of West Oakland, generally northwest of downtown and west of Martin Luther King Blvd, have a very high crime rate requiring prudence and care for visitors and residents alike, whether day or night.

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For all of its gentrification and swaths of wealth, Oakland also has crime-infested neighborhoods giving the city one of the highest ''per capita'' murder rates in the country. Violence is mostly limited to particular poorer neighborhoods in the flatlands. Property crime statistics are still relatively high as well in newly monied parts of the city, as crime can spill out from poorer districts and into the gentrifying areas and even, on occasion, the affluent hillside neighborhoods. Nonetheless swaths of Oakland are safe and as in any large city, it is a good idea for tourists to exercise care and always be aware of their surroundings.

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The affluent hills east of Interstate 580 and the Jack London Square area are by far the safest parts of the city. Downtown and Chinatown are safe during the day, and, with the arrival of the Uptown district as a major entertainment and cultural center within downtown Oakland, much safer during the night than in decades past. Other parts of the city, including the "flatlands" from the west of Lake Merritt and to the south to the San Leandro border, and large parts of West Oakland, generally northwest of downtown, still suffer very high crime rates and require prudence and care for visitors and residents alike.

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==Surrounding Cities==

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==Get out==

*[[San Francisco]]. Oakland's neighbor across the bay. The two cities are connected by the San Francisco - Oakland Bay Bridge.

*[[San Francisco]]. Oakland's neighbor across the bay. The two cities are connected by the San Francisco - Oakland Bay Bridge.

*[[Berkeley (California)|Berkeley]]. Eclectic, political and always interesting neighbor to the north. Home of the University of California-Berkeley.

*[[Berkeley (California)|Berkeley]]. Eclectic, political and always interesting neighbor to the north. Home of the University of California-Berkeley.

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*[[Alameda]] Island city to the west, across the Oakland Estuary. A quiet town with an out of the way air to it, Alameda also has an lengthy beach along its south shore.

Oakland[1] is a port city in the San Francisco Bay Area of California in the United States of America. The city was rated by Rand McNally as having some of the best weather in the country. Oakland does not have the concentration of tourist amenities present in neighbor city San Francisco directly across the bay to the west, or possess the suburban ethos of San Jose to the south, but the visitor to Oakland could easily spend a few pleasant days here with many things to see and do. Oakland consistently receives a negative image but the city does have some great neighborhoods in its hills, and in recent years Oakland's image has begun to undergo a radical improvement. More middle- and upper-middle class residents of all races have moved into Oakland seeking affordable homes; at least homes more affordable than in nearby San Francisco or San Jose. Oakland already has a good balance of Black, White, Asian, and Latino residents, and in recent years there has still been a steady influx of "hipsters" moving to the city. The city as a whole does indeed have a crime issue. However, the increasing and controversial gentrification of sections of Oakland's downtown has brought the city an undoubted reappraisal. Journals ranging from the Wall Street Journal to the UK Guardian have all ran features extolling Oakland's innovative culinary scene.

Oakland gets its name because the city is heavily populated with oak trees. Although often overshadowed by San Francisco, its beautiful and cosmopolitan neighbor lying directly to the west, Oakland has beautiful highlights of its own such as Lake Merritt, various theaters, and a zoo. Decades ago, former Oakland resident, writer Gertrude Stein, returned to visit her hometown of Oakland from which she left over twenty years ago. Upon her visit she found that her synagogue, a favorite park, her school, and the home in which she grew up no longer existed. An acquaintance, unaware that Stein had already visited the city, asked her if she planned to visit Oakland. Stein replied, "Why go to Oakland? There is no there there", as she was thinking of the fixtures of her childhood that had been demolished. Over many decades, some have taken this statement out of context to mean that there is nothing to see in Oakland.

But Oakland's visitors can find the "there" there most easily in the city's very affluent and beautiful hillside neighborhoods, its burgeoning culinary scene, its somewhat eccentric shopping districts, the parks, its sports teams, and its waterfront. Several distinct neighborhoods comprise Oakland, all of which host a heady mix of cultures and people.

In the 1960s, an era of social, cultural, racial, and political revolt throughout the Western world, Oakland became a hub of radical movements –– it is the birthplace of the Black Panther Party –– and numerous criminal organizations, such as the largely white Hell's Angels motorcycle gang, made the city their hub. Yet Oakland's history in the arts and entertainment, often overlooked by the city's detractors, always was and remains quite formidable. Oakland has nurtured or been a second home to novelists Gertrude Stein, Jack London, Amy Tan, and Maya Angelou; actors Mark Hamill, Bruce Lee, and Tom Hanks; architect Julia Morgan; classical conductor Calvin Simmons; rappers MC Hammer and Tupac Shakur, and many other notables in the liberal arts and sciences. Governor of California, Jerry Brown, and his wife maintain a large home in the affluent Montclair district, an Oakland neighborhood noted for its steep, wooded hillsides, and expansive homes and estates, many of which have stunning vistas of the city, the San Francisco Bay, and San Francisco and the Marin headlands beyond.

According to the 2000 Census, Oakland is one of the most ethnically diverse cities in the United States (along with Long Beach, California), with over 150 languages spoken within the city's borders. Reflecting this, Oakland holds several annual cultural events, such as the Art & Soul Weekend (held on Labor day weekend), the Cinco de Mayo Fruitvale Festival Parade (early May), the Chinatown Streetfest (late August), and the Oakland Holiday Parade in December.

Oakland International Airport [2] (IATA: OAK) is in the city and is served by many domestic and some international carriers. There is private shuttle service ($10-25) to hotels in Oakland and San Francisco, and public transit service (AirBART [3], and AC Transit [4] Line 73 or Line 805) to the Oakland Coliseum BART Station which takes exactly 12 mintues from the airport to the Oakland Coliseum Bart Station (which is adjacent to the similarly named Amtrak Capitol Corridor station).

Other air travel options include the San Francisco [5] (IATA: SFO) and San Jose [6] (IATA: SJC) International Airports. SFO, with its BART station, is the more convenient of the two and also sits closer to Oakland. SFO is also served by a plethora of domestic and international carriers. Those flying into SJC may have to battle significant traffic or pay for an expensive van or taxi ride. For public transportation, take VTA's Airport Flyer (Route 10) [7] to the Santa Clara Caltrain Station, then Caltrain to the Millbrae Intermodal Station, and then BART towards Oakland.

For private pilots, Oakland Airport (ICAO: KOAK) has a separate General Aviation area "North Field", essentially the equivalent of another airport to the north of the commercial facilities, with separate tower, taxiways, and radio frequencies. Its long runway is frequently used for jet travel, and Oakland makes a far better GA destination than San Francisco's (ICAO: KSFO) complex, heavily trafficked field.

Oakland is served by the regional rail system Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) [8] and the nationwide, long-distance rail service Amtrak [9], with the Bay Area's largest Amtrak station located in the neighboring city of Emeryville.

BART [10] is a subway/elevated rapid transit system of the Bay Area. It connects Oakland to San Francisco, the Peninsula, Contra Costa County, and the far northeastern reach of Silicon Valley. Prices on BART vary by the distance you need to travel; a one-way ticket to Oakland is usually $3-4.

The following Amtrak lines serve the Oakland station at Jack London Square, an easy twenty-minute walk away from the center of Downtown:

Capitol Corridor[11] San Jose to Auburn via Sacramento). The route also includes a stop at the Oakland Coliseum/Airport Amtrak station, adjacent to the Oakland Coliseum BART station. The Oakland Coliseum/Airport Amtrak station has no station agents. Passengers may board the train and buy the tickets from the conductor at no surcharge.

The California Zephyr route (Emeryville, California to Chicago) starts and ends at the nearby Emeryville Amtrak station, accessible on public transit by AC Transit [14] line 31 and by the Emery-Go-Round shuttle [15] to the Macarthur BART station in the Temescal neighborhood.

AC Transit Route 73 [16] (day) and Route 805 [17] (owl) provide fast, frequent, inexpensive, 24-hour bus service between the Oakland Coliseum BART station and the Oakland International Airport. Amtrak Capitol Corridor customers pay $0; ask your train conductor for a Transit Transfer. BART customers pay $1.75; take a BART-to-bus transfer from the white machine, before leaving the paid area of the BART station. The second part of either transfer is valid for a discounted return trip within several days. Otherwise, AC Transit's regular cash fare is $2.

AirBART is a direct BART line between the Oakland International Airport and the Oakland Coliseum BART [18] train station. The shuttle costs $6 for adults and $2.25 for children, seniors and persons with disabilities. AirBART accepts fare payment in the form of prepaid BART tickets, available just inside the BART station's entrance; you can also pay with the Clipper Card, a multi-agency pass accepted all over the Bay Area.

Most northern entries to Oakland go through the heinous MacArthur Maze, a spaghetti-like mashup of four freeways trying to merge and pass each other. It's got terrible traffic during commute times (7AM-10AM, 4PM-8PM), so you might want to avoid driving on the freeways at these times.

Specific AC Transit Transbay bus routes [19] run between San Francisco's Transbay Terminal and different parts of Oakland. Some run as often as every 15 minutes. The Transbay All Nighter (Route 800) [20] serves (San Francisco's) Market Street, the Transbay Terminal, Oakland, Berkeley and Richmond. Additional All Nighter [21] routes link other areas with Oakland, after BART shuts down for the night. Or see 511.org for an universal trip planner program that shows you get from here to there on all modes of (available) public transport in the SF Bay Area.

Greyhound, 2103 San Pablo Ave (San Pablo Avenue near 20th Street), ☎510 832-4730. has a terminal conveniently located in an ungentrified section of downtown Oakland, on San Pablo Avenue near 20th Street. As with such bus terminals in other cities, the immediate area is still sketchy at night. Be careful.edit

The Alameda-Oakland Ferry [23] has departures from both Pier 41 and the Ferry Building in San Francisco, weekdays year-round and weekends except for mid-winter. Its Oakland terminal is at the foot of Clay St. in Jack London Square. (On summer weekends there are also trips to Angel Island [24], an island park in the middle of the bay, formerly an immigration station.)

A car is the best way to get around the city, although taking public transit around the city may be an option in the tourist part of the city; unless going to the hills in the eastern part of which there is sparse or no public transit. Public transportation is not recommended all around Oakland as buses may traverse some heavy crime-ridden areas.

The AC Transit [25] bus system service is a good way to get around if you're headed for downtown Oakland, Jack London Square, the Grand Lake district, or Temescal. Otherwise, depending on where you're going, it can seem like you're waiting for a long time for the bus to arrive. The AC Transit costs $2.10 for adults. Add $0.25 for transfers.

Downtown, there is a free shuttle service called the "B on Broadway" which runs along Broadway from Jack London Square up to Grand Ave. Runs Monday-Thursday, 7am-7pm, Friday 7am-1am, and Saturday 6pm-1am. There is typically a bus every 15 mins.

Those, however, needing to go to the hills of Oakland should have a car as bus service to these areas is sparse.

BART has 8 stops at major areas of visitor interest, which makes it perhaps the best way to experience Oakland. A majority of these stations are adjacent and of walking distance to popular neighborhoods, eliminating car and parking hassles.
BART stations are usually named after the neighborhood they are located in. For example, to visit the chic Rockridge neighborhood, exit the Rockridge BART station, conveniently located steps from this area. Same goes for the Fruitvale District (Fruitvale BART station). Lake Merritt BART station is only a block away from the Oakland Museum of CA. Chinatown is 3 blocks from the 12 Street/City Center BART station. BART service ends around midnight.

Ridesharing and casual carpool offer an alternate to more traditional modes of transport. These can be more flexible and offer a wider range of pickup options than other modes. 511.org[26] has information on casual carpool stops. A good example of a ride sharing application is Carma[27]. There is also Uber, Lyft and Sidecar.

16th Street Station, viewable at 16th and Wood in West Oakland. Erected in 1912, this once prominent train station has a great facade. Going inside it is officially off limits as of now due to reconstruction because it suffered significant damage in the 1989 Loma Prieta Earthquake.edit

African American Museum & Library at Oakland, (at 14th St and Martin Luther King Jr. Way), [28]. Check the AAMLO web site for information on special exhibits, programs and events, such as an African American walking tour of downtown Oakland.edit

Jack London Square, (west end of Broadway), [29]. Open 24 hours. Oakland's principal tourist destination, Jack London Square has seen serious renovation over the years. Named after writer Jack London, the city's favorite son, the area was the original wharf district of Oakland and retains some of its maritime feel. The main attractions today are shopping and restaurants, though, and it appears to be in a state of transition with several prominent stores like Barnes and Noble closing down recently.edit

Oakland Museum of California, 1000 Oak St (at 10th; Lake Merritt BART station), ☎+1 510 238-2200, [30]. W-Sa 10AM-5PM, Su 11AM-5PM. A startlingly good museum dedicated to the art, history, and culture of California. The building itself is an admirable piece of architecture, and the exhibits are almost uniformly excellent and engaging. Well worth a visit.$12, $9 seniors and students, $6 youth 9-17, free 8 and under (free for everyone first Su each month). edit

Joaquin Miller Park, Joaquin Miller Rd (entrance about 1 mile from Hwy 13), ☎+1 510 238-3481, [31]. A beautiful park in the Oakland hills, made up in part of "The Hights", the old estate of California poet Joaquin Miller. The park has some of the few remaining old-growth redwood groves in the East Bay. Lots of hiking and bike-riding opportunities.Free. edit

USS Potomac

USS Potomac, Water St (adjacent to Jack London Square), ☎+1 510 627-1215, [32]. The ship is available for dockside tours W F Su 11AM-3PM. Historic cruises on the bay are available Apr-Oct Th & Sa; these must be booked with TicketWeb [33] or by calling +1 866 468-3399. Originally built as a Coast Guard Cutter, the Potomac was remodeled as Franklin Delano Roosevelt's presidential yacht in 1936 and served in that role until his death in 1945. In 1941, a fishing trip on the Potomac served as a cover story for Roosevelt's secret meeting with Churchill in Newfoundland waters; this meeting led to the allied partnership during World War II and eventually to the formation of the United Nations.Dockside tours $10, $8 seniors, free for children 12 and under. edit

Peralta Museum of History and Culture (Peralta Hacienda Historical Park), 2496 34th Ave, ☎+1 510 532-9142, [34]. Check website for tour hours and special events. Once headquarters of the Rancho San Antonio Spanish land grant, this six-acre park contains the 1870 Antonio Peralta House and interpretive exhibits, a native plant garden, and changing exhibits on history and culture.edit

GSBF Bonsai Garden, 666 Bellevue Ave. (In the park area north of Lake Merritt), [35]. T-F 11-3, Sa 10-4, Su 12-4. A rotating collection displaying over 100 Bonsai at any given time. The garden setting provides a pleasant space to escape the bustle of the city.free, donations accepted. edit

Preservation Park, 13th St. and MLK Jr. Way, [36]. A small block within downtown Oakland featuring a collection of 19 Victorian-era homes, many which were moved from various locations around the city during later development. Stroll through and admire some of Oakland's early architectural heritage.free. edit

First Friday Arts Festival, (Telegraph Avenue from West Grand to 27th street), [37]. F 5-9. Coinciding with the Oakland Art Murmur ([38]) gallery walk, the Uptown neighborhood closes the streets and hosts an eclectic arts and culture public event on the first Friday evening of each month. Art, music, and performances may be seen in the area's many galleries, bars, and street block parties. Many restaurants and food trucks also participate in the event. edit

Chabot Space and Science Center, 10000 Skyline Blvd, ☎+1 510 336-7300, [39]. Opened in August 2000, the Center is a state-of-the-art science and technology education facility on a 13-acre site in the hills of Oakland. Visitors can watch planetarium shows and/or Megadome movies, simulate space missions in the Challenger Learning Center, explore a variety of changing hands-on exhibits, observe the sky through the center's telescopes, and much more. In addition, the Science Discovery Lab (for children 7 and under and their parent/guardian) is fantastic.edit

Children's Fairyland, 699 Bellevue Ave (enter via Grand Ave near Lake Merritt), ☎+1 510 452-2259, [40]. Mixed seasonal hours, almost always open on weekends. Amazing, dynamic playground and destination for children, right on Lake Merritt. Please note that only adults with children can enter. Make sure you get a Magic Key.edit

Oakland Zoo. *9777 Golf Links Rd (Exit off I-580), ☎+1 510 632-9525, [41]. 10AM-4PM daily. The mission of the Oakland Zoo is to inspire respect for and stewardship of the natural world, while providing a quality visitor experience. At the Oakland Zoo, you can explore together, learn together, and have fun together.$10.50, kids and seniors $7. (37.75,-122.15)$10.50, kids and seniors $7. (37.75,-122.15)

Oakland Raiders (NFL), Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum, 7000 Coliseum Way (connected to Coliseum BART), ☎+1 510 569-2121, [42]. Known as "The Team of the Decades," the Raiders have a long tradition of victory, commanding the fierce support of Oaklanders and enjoying a large fan base across America. Be sure to enjoy the famous pre-game tailgating scene in the Coliseum parking lot, as well as the Black Hole of hard-core fans in the endzone section. Most home games are not sold out, so it should be possible to buy tickets up until game time.edit

An A's game at McAfee Coluseum

Oakland Athletics (MLB) (A's), Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum, 7000 Coliseum Way, [43]. With nine trophies to their name, four since relocating to Oakland, they are one of the most successful franchises in baseball. The A's also have the best deal in baseball: $2 tickets and $1 hot dogs for nearly every Wednesday game. The cheap tickets sell out quick, so buy a day or two in advance. In the baseball configuration, The O.co Coliseum has the odd distinction of having the most foul territory of any MLB field, and by a large margin.edit

Golden State Warriors (NBA), Oracle Arena, 7000 Coliseum Way (adjacent to Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum, connected to Coliseum BART), [44]. The Warriors play a fast, loose, and fun type of basketball, a departure from the stereotypical NBA team. After moving from Philadelphia to San Francisco, the Warriors settled in the East Bay and won their second championship in the 1970's. Prices are on the lower end for the NBA ($15 to over $250), though cheaper tickets sell out for most games and all tickets sell out for big games up to a week before.edit

Fox Theater, 1807 Telegraph Ave (downtown, near 19th St), ☎+1 510 548-3010, [45]. A former movie theatre, the Fox was built in 1928. It closed its doors in 1970 and stood empty until 2009, when it reopened as a 1,500-2,800 seat music venue, following a two-year, $75 million renovation. One block from the 19th St BART stop, it is in the heart of Oakland's Uptown neighborhood, which due to the construction of stylish condos and refurbishment of lofts and the arrival of notable chefs and their boutique restaurants to cater to the influx of monied younger residents, has done much to jump-start the city leaders' plans to regenerate downtown as Oakland's the Arts and Entertainment district.edit

Grand Lake Theater, 3200 Grand Ave (near MacArthur Blvd and 580), [46]. This beautiful Art Deco theater (built in 1926) shows first-run movies. It has a spectacular neon sign that is lit on weekends, and is famous for the ultra-liberal (and sometimes conspiracy-minded) weekly sign proclamations from the theater owner. At Friday and Saturday evening shows, an organist plays standards in the main theater.edit

Paramount Theater, 2025 Broadway (downtown, near 19th St), ☎+1 510 465-6400, [47]. This gorgeous Depression-era theater, completed in 1931, has been completely restored and is maintained in almost mint condition. It's worth just looking at the sculpture, the paintings, even the carpets. Shows include classic movies, concerts, and other live performances.edit

Parkway Speakeasy Theater, 1834 Park Blvd (near Lake Merritt), ☎+1 510 814-2400, [48]. Closed its doors in May 2009. A second-run movie theater, the Parkway had two huge screens with large comfy couches to sit on. Best of all, they served pizza, salads, and beer that you could eat and drink while you watched the movie. There are community efforts to reopen the Parkway at some point in the future. The New Parkway Theater was recently opened in the spirit of the Parkway.edit

The New Parkway Theater, 474 24th Street (near Uptown), ☎+1 510 658-7900, [49]. This community theater is modeled after the Parkway Speakeasy Theater and opened in 2012. Seating in the theater rooms are a mix up tables, chairs, and couches. Diner-style food, pizza, beverages, beer, and wine are served in the theater and allowed in the rooms. edit

The Hat Guys, 1764 Broadway, ☎+1 510 834-6868, [50]. The type of classic men's hat store you can't find anymore -- except here. First-class service and a contagious passion for hats. The largest inventory of hats on the West Coast -- hats in all sizes and hats for women and children, too.edit

College Avenue is well-known for its shopping and food, boasting international cuisines via a riotous range of higher-end, nationally noted restaurants such as Wood Tavern, Ramen Shop, Box and Bells, and the iconic Oliveto. Easily reached from the Rockridge Bart station [52], one can enjoy delicious food hailing from various continents, take in a yoga class, go book shopping at friendly independent book stores, buy artisan crafted jewelry, treat oneself to gourmet chocolate and sweets, or take a break with a pint and some pub grub. Family friendly and easily reached, College Avenue is a destination for many Oaklanders.

Piedmont Avenue is a neighborhood district in North Oakland, California. It is named for Piedmont Avenue, the main commercial street of the district. The neighborhood is bounded by Broadway on the west, Oakland Avenue on the East, the Mountain View Cemetery on the north, and the MacArthur Freeway (Interstate 580) on the south. Piedmont Avenue features numerous locally-owned small businesses, including shops, bars, restaurants and bookstores. Piedmont Avenue has recently become known as the Bay Area's Book Row, with six independent bookstores concentrated within a six-block radius.

Downtown Oakland contains some excellent Asian foods that are as authentic as anything else you'll find in the Bay Area. But the emerging Uptown (27th Street to the north, San Pablo Avenue to the west, City Center to the south, and Broadway to the east) area of downtown neighborhood has become an important entertainment district in recent years. Refurbished theaters, stylish new condos, and the influx of young professionals have enticed notable chefs to open a range of upscale and distinctive eateries to complement the established Asian restaurants.

Luka's Taproom & Lounge, 2221 Broadway (at W. Grand Ave.), ☎(510) 451-4677, [55]. Excellent food with a great selection of Belgian Ales, a small dance floor in a separate room, and a pool table in the back.edit

Mua, 2442 Webster St. ((between 24th St & 25th St)), ☎(510) 238-1100, [56]. A hip, new restaurant and bar in a large space just north of downtown.edit

Restaurant Peony, 2F of Pacific Renaissance Plaza, 388 9th St (btwn Franklin and Webster), ☎+1 510 286-8866, [57]. Serves Cantonese-style dishes and dim sum. One of the most popular Chinese restaurants on the East Bay. Big crowds on Saturdays and Sundays.edit

Shanghai Restaurant, 930 Webster St, ☎+1 510 465-6878. Rivals the best you'll find in Shanghai. The decor is minimal but the staff is friendly. Xiaolongbao (steamed dumplings) and Szechuan style shredded pork are two highlights.edit

Mijori, 3260 Grand Ave, ☎+1 510 465-8854. One of the best Japanese restaurants in the Bay Area. Usually a long wait for a table on the weekend.edit

Miss Saigon, 3345 Grand Ave, ☎+1 510 835-3474. Great family-run Vietnamese restaurant with good food at good prices, and a ridiculously good beer selection. Local delivery, but it's always better fresh out of the kitchen.edit

Spettro, 3355 Lakeshore Ave, ☎+1 510 451-7738, [61]. A neighborhood favorite, with cuisine ranging from Italian to Mexican to Thai. Order the Coconut Lime Mussels, and save some rosemary rolls for dipping. No corkage fee.edit

The Piedmont Avenue neighborhood is a foodie's delight. From gourmet Bay Wolf and Commis to Baja Taqueria, great food abounds.

Baja Taqueria, 4070 Piedmont Ave, ☎+1 510 547-2252. An avenue institution with lines sometimes out the doors for their great and innovative Baja style seafood and other Mexican food. The fish tacos are legendary and the lobster burritos hit home like nothing else. The portions are big and the prices are reasonable. Try the agua frescas too.edit

Bay Wolf Restaurant, 3853 Piedmont Ave, ☎+1 510 655-6004, [63]. A Bay Area tradition for almost forty years, Bay Wolf offers an elegant and relaxed setting in which to enjoy fine cuisine inspired by the regions of the Mediterranean.edit

Fentons Creamery and Restaurant, 4226 Piedmont Ave, ☎+1 510 658-7000, [64]. M-Th 11AM-11PM, F Sa 11AM-midnight. This hundred-year-old ice cream parlor is a cornerstone of Oakland culture -- one of those places that East Bay folks point to as making the region special. The parlor is mentioned in the 2009 Pixar film Up. Huge bowls of ice cream and sundaes of various sorts are served in this always-crowded eatery. Sugar-amped kids roam the aisles all day and into the evening, and although the place attracts a cannabis-enhanced college crowd towards the end of the night, it always has a sweet and wholesome atmosphere.$5-15 large sundae or entree. edit

Revolution Cafe, 1612 7th Street, ☎(510) 625-0149. A wonderful little cafe in West Oakland. With veggie and vegan friendly food, WiFi, and a tons of comfy couches to sink into. What else do you need?edit

Bakesale Betty, 5098 Telegraph Ave (btwn 49th & 51st Sts), ☎+1 510 985-1213, [68]. Bakery/cafe. Folks are literally lined up down the block for BB's chicken sandwiches and lemon slushies. Outdoor seating at ironing boards makes for very fun people-watching along one of the main streets in the Temescal district.edit

SadieDey's Cafe (formerly Tumble & Tea Cafe), 4210 Telegraph Ave, ☎+1 510 601-7378, [69]. The Gal has infused the comfortable atmosphere of an yummy cafe with the excitement and variety of a play space. Toddlers can slide, climb, jump, build, role play and pretend cook in the safe play area while parents look on with their cappuccino in hand or play along in their socked feet. Not only do they offer no-reservations-necessary play times, they also host movie nights, parent education lectures and workshops, sing-alongs and story times. Mother's Helpers available 10AM-2PM daily.edit

Champa Garden, 2102 8th Ave, ☎+1 510 238-8819, [70]. Su-Th 11AM-9PM, F Sa 11AM-10PM. Located in a residential neighborhood, you will find this cozy restaurant that has a flair of Southern Asia flavors. The mix of Vietnamese, Lao, Thai and Mien cuisine makes this restaurant a unique one. Make sure to get an order of Pad Thai.edit

Green Papaya Deli, 207 International Blvd, ☎+1 510 836 5337. Located a block from Lake Merritt, it's a great place to get lunch and take it to the lake. The restaurant is a mixture of Lao and Thai cuisine and run by a mother and daughter. The lao sausage and papaya salad are amazing. If you don't see what you'd like on the menu, just ask and they will make you an original delicious masterpiece. edit

Oakland's vibrant Latino community, a 10-block strip located on International Boulevard adjacent to the Fruitvale BART station, is a host to some of the best (and most inexpensive) Mexican food in the Bay Area. Although the recently built "Fruitvale Village" shopping area next to the BART station has several new restaurants, they are probably not worth visiting. If one prefers real local flavor, one should visit the following:

Essential eateries are:

San Jose Taqueria, (cnr of International Blvd and 35th Ave). Until 10PM. Widely regarded to have the best tacos, but offers a wide array of options (burritos, enchiladas, tortas, etc) and dinner plates. Most items are less than $5, have to eat the medium-large portions, and have generous ingredients (dinner plates are less than $10 and are "a la carte"). Another plus is the free self serve restaurant-made tortilla chips and delicious salsa and guacamole. Plenty of room to sit inside this historic and creatively decorated restaurant, or sit outside on the patio and enjoy the sunshine.edit

Tacos El Gordo, (cnr of International Blvd and 42nd Ave). Tu-F 6PM-3AM, Sa-M 10:30AM-3AM. Could be considered the best taco truck in Oakland, with fare that by far surpasses most restaurants. Their burritos are over 12" and unbeatable. Contrary to popular belief, taco trucks (especially this one) are sanitary and often have food as good or better than what one can find in standard restaurants. As there is no place to sit, people eat standing up next to the taco truck, or in their cars. There is a parking lot with free parking.edit

Taqueria La Costa, (cnr of International Blvd and 37th Ave). Until 7PM. A small, outdoor patio restaurant that features seafood but has the regular fare of typical Mexican restaurants. Spicy, so make sure you request no salsa or jalapenos if that is your preference. A former burger joint turned-taqueria, this eatery is good for lunch and best enjoyed in fair weather with a refreshing agua fresca, as tables are exclusively on the outdoor patio.$5 or less. edit

Rival "gourmet ghetto" to the city's Piedmont Avenue and nearby Berkeley, Rockridge is Oakland's affluent "boho" neighborhood right out of the IFC network's charming satire, Portlandia

A Cote, 75478 College Ave, ☎+1 510 655-6469. Lunch & dinner. Charming small portion French meals in great ambiance.edit

Cactus Taqueria, 5642 College Ave. ((between Ocean View Dr. & Shafter Ave.)), ☎(510) 658-6180, [71]. A family-friendly Mexican restaurant dedicated to freshness and sustainability while maintaining traditional flavors. Everything at Cactus Taqueria is made from scratch with no artificial ingredients or fillers. Top your taco, burrito, quesadilla, or enchilada with one of the multiple house-made salsas, and cool your mouth with a delicious glass of horchata.edit

Noodle Theory, 6099 Claremont Ave (cnr of Claremont and College Aves), ☎+1 510 595-6988. Asian Fusion food is a must see for the trendiest in California cuisine.edit

Oliveto Restaurant and Café, 5655 College Ave, ☎+1 510 547-5356. Nationally renowned for its Northern Italian cuisine, with forays into Southern French and Spanish offerings. One of Oakland's grand dames of upscale dining, and the restaurant credited with putting the Rockridge district on the culinary map. Now entering its third decade with a new chef, the well regarded Jonah Rhodehamel.edit

Zachary's Chicago Pizza, 5801 College Ave. ((between Birch Ct & Chabot Rd)), ☎(510) 655-6385, [72]. No one will dispute that Zachary's has the best stuffed Windy City deep dish pizza in the Bay Area (thin crust is also available). Not to be confused with “Sicilian” style, “Stuffed Crust” or other “deep dish” pizzas, Zachary's stuffed pizza starts with a thin layer of fresh made-from-scratch dough in a deep pan filled with a blend of quality cheeses and any combination of fresh ingredients. Another thin layer of dough is then added to cover the filling. The pizza is then topped with a mildly spicy, tangy tomato sauce and is cooked in an oven. edit

If you have an urge to visit a Chinatown, Oakland's Chinatown can be an option just as much as the larger San Francisco Chinatown. There are innumerable places to eat in Chinatown, Oakland; not only Chinese restaurants but Japanese and some Vietnamese as well. Chances are any place you choose to venture in will have some inexpensive and great food.

Shan Dong Restaurant, 328 10th St, ☎+1 510 839-2299. Although Oakland Mayor Jerry Brown has visited this place (a framed picture of him and the restaurant owner is proudly displayed), this restaurant has the characteristics of a local, "dirty but delicious" gem. Entrees are inexpensive and flavorful. Often crowded with local Chinese, and so when busy one may have to wait a while to get a table.edit

Vien Huong Restaurant, 712 Franklin St, ☎+1 510 465-5938. This is the best restaurant in Chinatown for a mix of Chinese and Vietnamese cuisine. Be sure to order a noodle soup and fish cake(with a sweet and sour salad).edit

The neighborhood centered on International Blvd and 8th Avenue is not officially named "Little Saigon" but may as well be, as this area has predominantly Vietnamese shops and restaurants. As Vietnamese is the language of choice, it will take some creativity when seeking restaurants and ordering food, but it's well worth the effort for those unbeatable $2 French-inspired Vietnamese sandwiches and the infinite varieties of Pho.

Barclay's Restaurant & Pub, 5940 College Ave. ((between Chabot Rd & Harwood Ave)), ☎(510) 654-1650, [74]. Featuring the best beer selection in Rockridge and good pub food, Barclay's is a fun place to meet friends and watch a game. A short walk from the Rockridge BART station.edit

Lake Chalet, 1520 Lakeside Dr. (between 14th and 17th), ☎(510) 208-5253, [83]. happy hour 3-6PM, 9-midnight. The outdoor patio and pier with views of Lake Merritt is the perfect place to have drinks and appetizers on a sunny day or a warm evening. Take a gondola ride around the lake from the pieredit

Lucky Lounge, 3332 Grand Ave. A more upscale bar with a mixed crowd of people.edit

Luka's Taproom & Lounge, 2221 Broadway (at W. Grand Ave.), ☎(510) 451-4677, [85]. Excellent food with a great selection of Belgian Ales, a small dance floor in a separate room, and a pool table in the back.edit

Anthony Chabot East Bay Regional Park, 9999 Redwood Road Castro Valley, CA 94546, ☎Toll Free: 888-EBPARKS (888-327-2757), option 3, extension 4502, [90]. Anthony Chabot campground is a great place to use as a base of operations for seeing the rest of the bay area. Only 10 miles from downtown Oakland and a few miles from the nearest BART station. There is a ten PM curfew which keeps the place safe. But if you are out late you could get stuck. The campsites themselves are rather average. Close together. Camp site 69 is the best. Bathrooms are clean. Flush toilets and showers. $22. edit

For all of its gentrification and swaths of wealth, Oakland also has crime-infested neighborhoods giving the city one of the highest per capita murder rates in the country. Violence is mostly limited to particular poorer neighborhoods in the flatlands. Property crime statistics are still relatively high as well in newly monied parts of the city, as crime can spill out from poorer districts and into the gentrifying areas and even, on occasion, the affluent hillside neighborhoods. Nonetheless swaths of Oakland are safe and as in any large city, it is a good idea for tourists to exercise care and always be aware of their surroundings.

The affluent hills east of Interstate 580 and the Jack London Square area are by far the safest parts of the city. Downtown and Chinatown are safe during the day, and, with the arrival of the Uptown district as a major entertainment and cultural center within downtown Oakland, much safer during the night than in decades past. Other parts of the city, including the "flatlands" from the west of Lake Merritt and to the south to the San Leandro border, and large parts of West Oakland, generally northwest of downtown, still suffer very high crime rates and require prudence and care for visitors and residents alike.